Pieptones

Pieptones are standardized auditory signals used primarily in audiometry to assess hearing function. They are generated electronically and are designed to produce pure tones at specific frequencies and intensities. The term "pieptone" originates from the French word *sifflet*, meaning whistle, reflecting the characteristic sound produced by these devices.

In clinical settings, pieptones are commonly employed in pure-tone audiometry, a diagnostic procedure that measures an individual’s ability to hear different pitches and volumes. Audiometers, the devices that produce pieptones, generate tones at frequencies ranging from 125 Hz to 8,000 Hz, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of hearing across the audible spectrum. The intensity of the tone, measured in decibels (dB), is adjusted to determine the softest sound a person can detect, known as the hearing threshold.

Pieptones are particularly useful in distinguishing between conductive hearing loss (affecting the outer or middle ear) and sensorineural hearing loss (affecting the inner ear or auditory nerve). By comparing responses to air conduction (via pieptones) and bone conduction (using a vibrating oscillator), audiologists can identify the type and degree of hearing impairment.

Modern audiometers often incorporate digital technology, allowing for precise control over tone frequency, duration, and presentation mode. While traditional pieptones are still widely used, some advanced systems may employ synthesized or digitally generated sounds to enhance accuracy and reduce background noise interference. The use of pieptones remains a cornerstone in audiological assessment, providing essential data for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of hearing health.